Control of a Cutting Tool

ABSTRACT

An example system includes a cutting tool and a device configured to remotely control the cutting tool. The device is configured to establish a wireless communication with the cutting tool, and the cutting tool is configured to send a first signal to the device indicating that the cutting tool is enabled to be operated remotely responsive to the cutting tool receiving information indicating that a trigger is locked in an “on” state and a remote switch is in a first position. The device is configured to send a second signal to the cutting tool indicating a request to cause the cutting tool to perform a cutting operation responsive to receiving information indicative of actuation of at least one button of a user interface of the device.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to control of a cutting tool.

BACKGROUND

A cutting tool may include one or more movable blades that areactuatable by a hydraulic or electromechanical actuation system. Byproviding power to the actuation system, the blades move relative toeach other to perform operations such as cutting, crimping, separation,blanking, etc.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure describes embodiments that relate to apparatusesand methods associated with control of a cutting tool. In a firstexample implementation, the present disclosure describes a cutting tool.The cutting tool includes a body; two blades coupled to the body; anactuator coupled to the body and configured to cause the two blades tomove relative to each other; and a controller coupled to the body. Thecontroller is in wireless communication with a remote device, and thecontroller is configured to perform operations. The operations include:(i) receiving a first signal from the remote device indicating a requestto operate the cutting tool remotely; (ii) receiving informationindicating that a trigger coupled to the body has been locked in an “on”state; (iii) sending a second signal to the remote device indicatingthat the trigger has been locked in the “on” state; and (iv) in responseto receiving a third signal from the remote device, causing the actuatorto move the two blades relative to each other to cut a cable placedtherebetween.

In a second example implementation, the present disclosure describes adevice configured to remotely control a cutting tool. The deviceincludes a user interface comprising a plurality of user interfaceitems; at least one processor; and date storage comprising instructionsthat, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device toperform operations. The operations include: (i) receiving informationindicative of actuation of a first user interface item of the pluralityof interface items; (ii) responsively, sending a first signal to thecutting tool so as to request enabling the cutting tool to be operatedremotely; (iii) receiving a second signal from the cutting toolindicating that the cutting tool is ready to perform a cuttingoperation; (iv) receiving information indicative of actuation of asecond user interface item of the plurality of interface items; and (v)responsively, sending a third signal to the cutting tool so as to causethe cutting tool to perform the cutting operation.

In a third example implementation, the present disclosure describes asystem. The system includes a cutting tool that includes a body, twoblades coupled to the body, and an actuator coupled to the body andconfigured to cause the two blades to move relative to each other. Thesystem also includes a device configured to remotely control the cuttingtool. The device includes a user interface comprising a plurality ofuser interface items. In response to receiving information indicative ofactuation of a first user interface item of the plurality of interfaceitems, the device sends a first signal to the cutting tool so as torequest enabling the cutting tool to be operated remotely. Also, inresponse to (i) receiving the first signal, and (ii) actuation of atrigger coupled to the cutting tool, the cutting tool sends a secondsignal to the device indicating that remote operation of the cuttingtool has been enabled. Further, the cutting tool receives informationindicating that the trigger has been locked in an “on” state, andresponsively sends a third signal to the device indicating that thecutting tool is ready to perform a cutting operation. The device thenreceives information indicative of actuation of a second user interfaceitem of the plurality of interface items, and responsively, sends afourth signal to the cutting tool so as to cause the cutting tool toperform the cutting operation.

In a fourth example implementation, the present disclosure describesperforming the following operations: (i) enabling a cutting tool to beoperated remotely in response to receiving a first signal from a remotedevice, where the cutting tool includes a body, two blades coupled tothe body, and an actuator coupled to the body and configured to causethe two blades to move relative to each other, and where the cuttingtool is in wireless communication with the remote device; (ii) receivinginformation indicating that a trigger coupled to the body of the cuttingtool has been locked in an “on” state; (iii) sending a second signal tothe remote device indicating that the trigger has been locked in the“on” state; and (iv) in response to receiving a third signal from theremote device, causing the actuator to move the two blades relative toeach other to cut a cable placed therebetween.

In a fifth example implementation, the present disclosure describesperforming the following operations: (i) receiving informationindicative of actuation of a first user interface item of a plurality ofinterface items of a device configured to remotely control a cuttingtool; (ii) responsively, sending a first signal to the cutting tool soas to request enabling the cutting tool to be operated remotely; (iii)receiving a second signal from the cutting tool indicating that remoteoperation of the cutting tool has been enabled; (iv) receiving a thirdsignal from the cutting tool indicating that the cutting tool is readyto perform a cutting operation; (v) receiving information indicative ofactuation of a second user interface item of the plurality of interfaceitems; and (vi) responsively, sending a fourth signal to the cuttingtool so as to cause the cutting tool to perform the cutting operation.

In a sixth example implementation, the present disclosure describes acutting tool. The cutting tool includes a body, a remote switch, atrigger coupled to the body, a trigger lock switch, two blades coupledto the body, an actuator, and a controller. The remote switch is coupledto the body and configured to be toggled between at least a firstposition and a second position. The trigger lock switch is coupled tothe body and configured to lock the trigger in an “on” state. Theactuator is coupled to the body and configured to cause the two bladesto move relative to each other. The controller is coupled to the bodyand configured to wirelessly communicate with a remote device. Further,the controller is configured to perform operations including: (i)establishing wireless connection with the remote device; (ii) receivinginformation indicating that the trigger is locked in the “on” state andthe remote switch is in the first position; (iii) responsive toreceiving the information indicating that the trigger is locked in the“on” state and the remote switch is in the first position, sending afirst signal to the remote device indicating that the cutting tool isenabled to be operated remotely; and (iv) responsive to receiving asecond signal from the remote device, causing the actuator to move thetwo blades relative to each other to cut a cable placed therebetween.

In a seventh example implementation, the present disclosure describes adevice configured to remotely control a cutting tool. The deviceincludes a user interface, at least one processor, and data storage. Theuser interface includes a first button and a second button. The datastorage includes instructions, that when executed by the at least oneprocessor, cause the device to perform operations including: (i)establishing a wireless connection with the cutting tool; (ii) receivinga first signal from the cutting tool indicating that the cutting tool isenabled to be operated remotely; (iii) receiving information indicativeof actuation of the first button; (iv) responsive to receiving theinformation indicative of the actuation of the first button, sending asecond signal to the cutting tool indicating a request to arm thecutting tool; (v) receiving information indicative of actuation of thesecond button; and (vi) responsive to receiving the informationindicative of the actuation of the second button, sending a third signalto the cutting tool indicating a request to cause the cutting tool toperform a cutting operation.

In an eighth example implementation, the present disclosure describes asystem including a cutting tool and a device configured to remotelycontrol the cutting tool. The cutting tool includes a body, a remoteswitch, a trigger coupled to the body, a trigger lock switch, two bladescoupled to the body, and an actuator. The remote switch is coupled tothe body and configured to be toggled between at least a first positionand a second position. The trigger lock switch is coupled to the bodyand configured to lock the trigger in an “on” state. The actuator iscoupled to the body and configured to cause the two blades to moverelate to each other. The device includes a user interface including atleast one button. The device is configured to establish a wirelessconnection with the cutting tool. The cutting tool is configured to senda first signal to the device indicating that the cutting tool is enabledto be operated remotely responsive to the cutting tool receivinginformation indicating that the trigger is locked in the “on” state andthe remote switch is in the first position. The device is configured tosend a second signal to the cutting tool indicating a request to causethe cutting tool to perform a cutting operation responsive to receivinginformation indicative of actuation of the at least one button.

In a ninth example implementation, the present disclosure describesperforming the following operations: (i) establishing, by a cuttingtool, a wireless connection with a remote device; (ii) receiving, by thecutting tool, information indicating that a trigger of the cutting toolis locked in an “on” state and a remote switch of the cutting tool is ina first position; (iii) responsive to receiving the informationindicating that the trigger is locked in the “on” state and the remoteswitch is in the first position, sending, by the cutting tool, a firstsignal to the remote device indicating that the cutting tool is enabledto be operated remotely; (iv) receiving, by the cutting tool, a secondsignal from the remote device indicating a request to perform a cuttingoperation, and (v) responsive to receiving the second signal from theremote device, causing the cutting tool to perform the cuttingoperation.

In a tenth example implementation, the present disclosure describesperforming the following operations: (i) establishing, by a device, awireless connection with a cutting tool; (ii) receiving, by the device,a first signal from the cutting tool indicating that the cutting tool isenabled to be operated remotely; (iii) receiving, by the device,information indicative of actuation of a first button of a userinterface of the device; (iv) responsive to receiving the informationindicative of the actuation of the first button, sending, by the device,a second signal to the cutting tool indicating a request to arm thecutting tool; (v) receiving information indicative of actuation of asecond button of the user interface; and (vi) responsive to receivingthe information indicative of the actuation of the second button,sending, by the device, a third signal to the cutting tool indicating arequest to cause the cutting tool to perform a cutting operation.

In an eleventh example implementation, the present disclosure describesa non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereininstructions that, when executed by a computing device, cause thecomputing device to perform operations in accordance with the fourthexample implementation. In a twelfth example implementation, the presentdisclosure describes a non-transitory computer readable medium havingstored therein instructions that, when executed by a computing device,cause the computing device to perform operations in accordance with thefifth example implementation. In a thirteenth example implementation,the present disclosure describes a non-transitory computer readablemedium having stored therein instructions, that when executed by acomputing device, cause the computing device to perform operations inaccordance with the ninth example implementation. In a fourteenthexample implementation, the present disclosure describes anon-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereininstructions, that when executed by a computing device, cause thecomputing device to perform operations in accordance with the tenthexample implementation. Further additional example implementations aredescribed as well that include any combination of the implementations.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be inany way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments,and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and featureswill become apparent by reference to the figures and the followingdetailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 illustrates a system, in accordance with an exampleimplementation.

FIG. 2 illustrates a user interface of a device, in accordance with anexample implementation.

FIG. 3 illustrates a simplified block diagram of a controller or adevice, in accordance with an example implementation.

FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4F, 4G, and 4H illustrate procedure forenabling remote-cut mode, in accordance with an example implementation.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D illustrate procedure for arming a cutting tool,in accordance with an example implementation.

FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F, and 6G illustrate procedure for performinga remote cutting operation, in accordance with an exampleimplementation.

FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, and 7D illustrate an example procedure for enabling aremote-cut mode, in accordance with an example implementation.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate an example procedure for arming a cuttingtool, in accordance with an example implementation.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate example indications that may be provided by acutting tool and a device, in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 10 illustrates exclusive one-to-one pairing between a cutting tooland a device, in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 11 illustrates a device communicating exclusively with a cuttingtool, in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 12 illustrates a cutting tool communicating with a particulardevice while excluding other devices, in accordance with an exampleimplementation.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart, in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 14 is another flow chart, in accordance with an exampleimplementation.

FIG. 15 is another flow chart, in accordance with an exampleimplementation.

FIG. 16 is still another flow chart, in accordance with an exampleimplementation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description describes various features andfunctions of the disclosed systems and methods with reference to theaccompanying figures. The illustrative system and method embodimentsdescribed herein are not meant to be limiting. It may be readilyunderstood that certain aspects of the disclosed systems and methods canbe arranged and combined in a wide variety of different configurations,all of which are contemplated herein.

Further, unless context suggests otherwise, the features illustrated ineach of the figures may be used in combination with one another. Thus,the figures should be generally viewed as component aspects of one ormore overall implementations, with the understanding that not allillustrated features are necessary for each implementation.

Additionally, any enumeration of elements, blocks, or steps in thisspecification or the claims is for purposes of clarity. Thus, suchenumeration should not be interpreted to require or imply that theseelements, blocks, or steps adhere to a particular arrangement or arecarried out in a particular order.

By the term “substantially” it is meant that the recited characteristic,parameter, or value need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations orvariations, including for example, tolerances, measurement error,measurement accuracy limitations and other factors known to skill in theart, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effect thecharacteristic was intended to provide.

I. Overview

In examples, electrical equipment may be maintained while operating athigh voltages. An example maintenance operation may involve cutting alive line. In this example, it is desirable to perform a cable cuttingoperation by way of a remotely controlled cutting tool so as to insulateworkers from any electrical hazards.

In other examples, the line might not be easily reachable. For instance,the cable may be in an underwater environment, and may thus be cut viaremote control of the cutting tool. Disclosed herein are systems,devices, and methods for remote control of a cutting tool to insulateworkers from hazardous environments.

II. Example Systems

FIG. 1 illustrates a system 100, in accordance with an exampleimplementation. The system 100 includes a cutting tool 102, and a device104 configured to remotely control the cutting tool 102. The cuttingtool 102 includes a body 106 and one or more blades 108. The cuttingtool 102 may also include a trigger 110.

In examples, the cutting tool may be electromechanically actuated. Forinstance, the cutting tool 102 may include an electric motor configuredto cause a spindle to rotate, thus causing an actuator coupled to thespindle to move linearly. The actuator may be coupled to at least one ofthe blades 108, and may cause the blades 108 to move relative to eachother to cut a cable disposed therebetween. The motor, spindle, andactuator may be coupled to the body 106.

In another example, the cutting tool may be hydraulically actuated. Forinstance, a motor may be configured to drive a hydraulic pump, whichpressurizes hydraulic fluid and provides the pressurized fluid to anactuator (e.g., a linear hydraulic cylinder). A piston of the actuatormay be coupled to at least one of the blades 108 such that motion of thepiston may cause the blades 108 to move relative to each other. Otheractuation mechanisms are possible.

Also, in examples, the cutting tool 102 may be powered by a battery 112.However, the cutting tool 102 may be coupled to an electric line thatprovides power to the cutting tool 102.

In examples, the cutting tool 102 may include two blades 108. In anexample, motion of the actuator may cause both blades 108 to moverelative to each other. In another example, the actuator may cause oneblade to move, while the other blade remains stationary. In stillanother example, the cutting tool 102 may include only one blade 108movable by the actuator.

Further, the cutting tool 102 may include a controller coupled to orembedded within the body 106. The controller may be configured tooperate the cutting tool 102. For example, the controller may be incommunication with sensors coupled to the cutting tool 102. Thecontroller may also be in communication with the trigger 110 andcomponents of the actuation mechanism of the cutting tool 102. Forinstance, if the trigger 110 is pulled, the controller may, in responsecause power from the battery 112 to be provided to the actuationmechanism. The controller may further operate the actuation mechanismbased on sensor inputs. Example sensor inputs include position sensorinformation indicating position of an actuator, pressure sensorinformation indicating hydraulic pressure in chambers of a hydraulicactuator, etc.

Additionally, the cutting tool 102 may include one or more antennae thatfacilitate sending and receiving messages to and from other devices,such as the device 104.

The device 104 can be, for example, a mobile phone, personal digitalassistant (PDA), laptop, notebook, or netbook computer, tablet computingdevice, etc. The device 104 may have a user interface to interact withoperators/users.

FIG. 2 illustrates a user interface 200 of the device 104, in accordancewith an example implementation. The user interface 200 may include aplurality of user interface items. For instance, the user interface 200may include user-selectable buttons 202A, 202B, 202C, 202D, 202E, and202F. These buttons may be mechanically actuatable, or may be on-screentouch buttons. The user interface 200 may also include a display 204configured to display messages and accept inputs from a user. The userinterface 200 may also include indicators 206A, 206B, and 206C. Each ofthese indicators may, for example, emit light of a particular color toindicate a particular status of the cutting tool 102 or the device 104.These user interface items are examples for illustration only, and otheruser interface items and configurations are possible.

FIG. 3 is a simplified block diagram of a controller or a device, inaccordance with an example implementation. FIG. 3 shows some of thecomponents that may be included in the device 104 or the controller ofthe cutting tool 102 to facilitate carrying out operations describedherein.

As shown in FIG. 3 , the device includes a communication interface 302,a processing unit 304, and non-transitory data storage 306, all of whichmay be communicatively linked together by a system bus, network, orother connection mechanism 308. Further, although these components areshown as discrete blocks in the figure, the components could beintegrated together in various ways and/or distributed, replicated, orarranged in some other manner.

The communication interface 302 may operate to facilitate communicationwith various other entities. For instance, if the device 300 representsthe device 104, then the communication interface 302 facilitatestransmitting signals/messages from the device 104 to the cutting tool102 and receiving signals/messages from the cutting tool 102. Similarly,if the device 300 represents the controller of the cutting tool 102,then the communication interface 302 facilitates transmittingsignals/messages from the controller to the device 104 and receivingsignals/messages from the device 104.

As such, the communication interface 302 may include one or more networkcommunication interface modules, such as Ethernet network communicationinterface modules for instance, or may take any of a variety of otherforms, supporting wireless and/or wired communication according to anyof a variety of network communication protocols such as Bluetooth, NearField Communication (NFC), etc. Further, the device 300 may include oneor more antennae to facilitate communication with other devices.

Processing unit 304 may include one or more general purpose processors(such as microprocessors) and/or one or more special purpose processors(e.g., application specific integrated circuits). The data storage 306may comprise one or more volatile and/or non-volatile storagecomponents, such as optical, magnetic, or flash storage. As shown, thedata storage 306 may hold program instructions 310 that are executableby processing unit 304 to carry out various operations described herein.

The cutting tool 102 may be configured to operate in at least twooperating modes: a normal mode and a remote-cut mode. In the normalmode, an operator may place a cable between the blades 108 and pull thetrigger 110 causing the actuator to move the blades 108 relative to eachother and cut the cable. As long as the operator is pulling the trigger110, the actuation mechanism is powered, e.g., power is provided to themotor that controls motion of the actuator. But, as the operatorreleases the trigger 110, power is disconnected from the actuationmechanism. Thus, this normal mode of operation may be safe if the cableis not energized as the operator stays close to the cutting tool 102,possibly holding the cutting tool 102, while the cutting operation isbeing performed.

In the remote-cut mode, however, the cutting tool 102 may be remotelycontrolled via the device 104. The cutting tool 102 may be in wirelesscommunication with the device 104. Thus, the cutting tool 102 and thedevice the device 104 may exchanges signals and messages associated withperformance of a cutting operation. Particularly, the device 104 may beused to remotely control the cutting tool 102 to perform a cuttingoperation while an operator is away from the cutting tool 102.

A first step associated with the remote-cut mode may involve verifyingthat a user or operator wants to start a remote-cut operation. FIGS.4A-4H illustrate procedure for enabling remote-cut mode, in accordancewith an example implementation. As shown in FIG. 4A, an operator maypress the button 202A of the device 104 to initiate enabling theremote-cut mode. In response, a processor of the device 104 may generatea display of a message, e.g., “Enable Remote Cut,” on the display 204 toalert the operator that the 202A button has been pressed or selected.

To ensure that the button 202A has been pressed intentionally, thedevice 104 may request a confirmation from the operator. As such, thedevice 104 may prompt the operator for a second enable criterion inaddition to pressing the button 202A. For instance, assuming that thebutton 202D is blue, a display of a message, e.g., “Press ‘Blue’ toActivate Remote Cut,” may be generated on the display 204 as shown inFIG. 4B. The operator may then press the button 202D to confirm that theoperate intended to enable the remote-cut mode. Additionally, the device104 may also determine an amount of time that elapsed between pressingthe button 202A and pressing the button 202D. If the amount of time isless than a threshold period of time, e.g., 10 seconds, then the device104 determines that the operator intends to initiate the remote-cutmode. If the period of time exceeds the threshold period of time, thenthe device 104 discards the previous pressing or selection of the button202A, and does not initiate enabling the remote-cut mode.

Assuming that the button 202D was pressed within the threshold amount oftime, the device 104 verifies the operator's intention to initiate theremote-cut mode. In response, the device 104 may then transmit or send asignal 400 to the cutting tool 102, as shown in FIG. 4C, to command thecontroller of the cutting tool 102 to prepare for a remote-cutoperation.

Further, as shown in FIG. 4D, the device 104 may request a third enablecriterion from the operator. Particularly, a display of a message, e.g.,“Confirm Remote Cut Pull Tool Trigger,” may be generated on the display204 to prompt the operator to actuate or pull the trigger 110 as shownin FIG. 4E. If the operator pulls the trigger 110, the controller of thecutting tool 102 may send a signal/message 402 to the device 104 toconfirm that the trigger 110 has been pulled and that the cutting tool102 is in the remote-cut mode, as shown in FIG. 4F. The exchange ofsignals between the cutting tool 102 and the device 104 further servesto verify that communication therebetween is established.

It should be noted that if the cutting tool 102 is in the normal mode ofoperation, pulling the trigger 110 may cause the actuator of the cuttingtool 102 to be powered and the blades 108 to move relative to eachother. However, because the cutting tool 102 had received the signal 400from the device 104 that commands the cutting tool 102 to prepare forthe remote-cut mode, pulling the trigger 110 in FIG. 4E does not causethe actuator to be powered. If the signal 400 was not received correctlyat the cutting tool 102 due to, for example, communication faults,pulling the trigger 110 might cause the actuator to be powered. Thisindicates to the operator that communication has not been established orthat the procedure for enabling the remote-cut mode might not have beenfollowed correctly.

In addition to sending the signal 402 to the device 104, the cuttingtool 102 may provide an indication to the operator that the cutting tool102 is now in the remote-cut mode (e.g., the cutting tool 102 switchedfrom a normal mode of operation to the remote-cut mode of operation).For instance, the cutting tool 102 may have a light emitting diode (LED)indicator 404 shown in FIG. 4G. The controller of the cutting tool 102may cause the LED indicator 404 to flash or emit light intermittently ata particular frequency (e.g., 2 flashes/second) to notify the operatorthat the remote-cut mode is enabled.

In an example, the controller may further start a timer upon sending themessage 402 to the device 104. If a threshold period of time (e.g., 2minutes) lapses from the start of the timer without receiving furthercommunications from the device 104, the controller may cause the cuttingtool 102 to disable or exit the remote-cut mode and switch back to thenormal mode of operation.

Upon receiving the signal 402 at the device 104, a display of a message,e.g., “Remote Cut Enabled” as shown in FIG. 4H, may be generated on thedisplay 204 to further confirm to the operator that the remote-cut modeis enabled.

Now that the remote-cut mode is enabled, the operator may next preparethe cut location at the cutting tool 102. For instance, the operator mayplace a cable between the blades 108. Flashing of the LED indicator 404indicates to the operator that the cutting tool 102 is still in theremote-cut model.

A second step associated with the remote-cut mode may involve arming orreadying the cutting tool 102 before the operator exits the cut locationto avoid any hazards. FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate procedure for arming thecutting tool 102, in accordance with an example implementation. As shownin FIG. 5A, the cutting tool 102 may further include a trigger lock 500.If the trigger 110 is pulled, and then the trigger lock 500 is actuated,e.g., pressed down, then the trigger 110 is locked in an “on” state. The“on” state of the trigger 110 could also be referred to as an “active”or “enabled” state. This process may require both hands of the operator:one hand to pull the trigger 110, and a second hand to actuate thetrigger lock 500. This is a safety precaution as the operator cannotlock the trigger 110 in the “on” state accidently by one hand.

Although FIG. 5A illustrates the trigger lock 500 as being located on ahandle of the cutting tool 102, in another embodiment, the trigger lock500 may be located further away from the trigger 110. For instance, thetrigger lock 500 may be located at a position 508. Other positions forthe trigger lock 500 are also contemplated. Thus, the examples shown inFIG. 5A are not meant to be limiting.

In some examples, the trigger lock 500 may also serve as an immediatestop button on the cutting tool 102. For instance, an operator mayquickly interrupt a remote-cut by toggling the trigger lock 500 to an“unlock” position, thereby disabling the remote-cut.

FIG. 5B illustrates a simplified electric circuit for the cutting tool102, in accordance with an example implementation. A switch 502 iscontrolled by a main control unit (MCU), i.e., the controller of thecutting tool 102. As shown by the electric circuit, both the trigger 110and the switch 502 need to be activated for a relay 504 to be energized,and thus deliver power to the actuator of the cutting tool 102.

Thus, to operate the cutting tool 102 remotely, the trigger 110 has tostay in the “on” state, i.e., stayed pulled. In this manner, when thecontroller activates or turns on the switch 502, power would bedelivered to the actuator, thus causing the cutting tool 102 to performa cutting operation. When the trigger lock 500 is pushed by the operatorwhile the trigger 110 is pulled, the trigger lock 500 mechanically locksthe trigger 110 in the “on” state. In this case, the cutting tool 102 isarmed, such that when the controller turns on the switch 502, power isdelivered to the actuator of the cutting tool 102.

In an example, the controller of the cutting tool 102 may start a timerwhen the trigger 110 is locked in the “on” state by the trigger lock500. If the trigger 110 or the trigger lock 500 remains depressed for athreshold period of time (e.g., 20 seconds), the controller confirmsthat the operator intends to arm the cutting tool 110. The operator candisarm the cutting tool 110 with one hand by disengaging the triggerlock 500.

When the controller confirms that the operator intends the cutting tool102 to be armed, the controller sends a signal 506, as shown in FIG. 5C,to the device 104 to inform the device 104 that the trigger 110 is heldin the “on” state and the cutting tool 102 is armed. In response, adisplay of a message, e.g., “Tool Armed! Press Start to Begin Cut,” maybe generated on the display 204. Further, the device 104 may cause oneof the indicators, such as the light indicator 206B, as shown in FIG.5D, to flash with a particular color (e.g., red) to further indicate tothe operator that the cutting tool 102 is armed and ready to perform acutting operation.

In an example, the controller of the cutting tool 102 may start a timerwhen the cutting tool 102 is armed. If controller does not receive anindication from the device 104 to start a cutting operation within athreshold period of time (e.g., 20 seconds, 2 minutes, etc.), thecontroller may disarm the cutting tool 102. The cutting tool 102 maythen stay in the remote-cut mode and wait for a re-arming procedure, orthe controller may cause the cutting too to revert back to the normaloperating mode.

A third step associated with the remote-cut mode may involve startingthe cutting operation. Now that the cutting tool 102 is armed and readyto perform the cutting operation, the operator exits or has alreadyexited the cutting location to avoid any hazards. The operator cancontrol the cutting tool remotely via the device 104.

FIGS. 6A-6G illustrate procedure for performing a remote cuttingoperation, in accordance with an example implementation. To confirm thatthe operator intends to command the cutting tool 102 to cut a cableplaced between the blades 108, the operator may be required to press andhold one or more buttons for a particular period of time (e.g., 3seconds).

FIG. 6A illustrates an operator pressing the buttons 202B and 202E tostarting the cutting operation remotely. The buttons 202B and 202E areplaced on the user interface 200 of the device 104 so as to ensure thatthe operator uses both hands to command starting the cutting operation,which further confirms the operator's intention. The buttons 202B and202E may be pressed at substantially the same time (e.g., the operatormay begin pressing the button 202B and then within a threshold period oftime, such as 100 milliseconds, begins pressing the other button 202E).Requiring the operator to use both hands to send the cutting commandfurther ensures that the operator's hands are away from the cutting tool102 and thus further enhances operator safety.

If the device 104 confirms that the operator intends to start thecutting operation by pressing both buttons 202B and 202E substantiallysimultaneously for a particular period of time, the device 104 sends asignal 600, as shown in FIG. 6B, to the cutting tool 102. In response toreceiving the signal 600, the controller of the cutting tool 102 mayturn on the switch 502 to start the cutting operation. A display of amessage, e.g., “Remote Cut Starting—Cutting” may be generated on thedisplay 204 of the device 104, as shown in FIG. 6A, to show the operatorthat the cutting operation started or is about to start.

In some examples, the operator may desire to stop the cutting operationbefore completion. For instance, a tool failure may occur, the cable maybe displaced while the operation is performed, or any other event mightoccur that would prompt the operator to stop the ongoing cuttingoperation.

As shown in FIG. 6C, the operator may press the button 202C to indicatethe operator's request to stop the cutting operation. In response, adisplay of a message, such as “Remote Cut Started—Stop Cut,” may begenerated on the display 204 as shown in FIG. 6C, to indicate theoperator's request. Further, the device 104 may send a signal 602, asshown in FIG. 6D, to the cutting tool 102 commanding the controller ofthe cutting tool 102 to stop the cutting operation. All or a subset ofthe steps described above may have to be repeated to restart a remotecutting operation.

Additionally, the cutting tool 102 and the device 104 may provide theoperator with a status of a cutting operation. The controller of thecutting tool 102 may receive information indicating that a cuttingoperation has been performed successfully. For instance, a hydraulicpressure within the cutting tool 102 may reach a threshold or targetpressure value indicating that the actuator reached a limit of itstravel stroke and thus the cut was successfully performed. As anotherexample, the actuator may have a position sensor that might indicate tothe controller that the actuator reached the end of its travel stroke.Other indicators are also possible.

On the other hand, the controller may also determine that a failureoccurred during the cutting operation. For instance, the controller maydetermine or receive sensor information indicating that the actuator hasstalled or that the battery 112 is overloaded, or any other event thatmight indicate fault with the cutting tool 102.

Whether the cutting operation is successful or an error has occurred,the controller of the cutting tool 102 may send a signal 604, as shownin FIG. 6E, to the device 104 to indicate the status of the cuttingoperation. When the device 104 receives the signal 604, the device 104may provide indications to the operator regarding the status of thecutting operation. For instance, if the cutting operation has beensuccessful, a display of a message “Cut Complete!” may be generated onthe display 204 as shown in FIG. 6F. Further, the light indicator 206Amay flash at a particular frequency with a green light to indicatesuccess of the cutting operation.

On the other hand, if a fault has occurred and the cutting operation hasbeen stopped, a display of a message “System Fault!” may be generated onthe display 204, as shown in FIG. 6G. Further, the light indicator 206Bmay flash at a particular frequency with a red light to indicate systemfault or failure of the cutting operation.

Upon completion of the cutting operation, the controller of the cuttingtool 102 may cause the cutting tool 102 to switch back to the normalmode of operation. As mentioned above, in the normal mode of operation,if the operator pulls the trigger 110, the actuator of the cutting tool102 would be powered.

FIGS. 7A-7E illustrate another example procedure for enabling aremote-cut mode, in accordance with an example implementation. As shownin FIG. 7A, in one example embodiment, the device 104 may include apower switch 702. Enabling the remote-cut mode may initially involvetoggling the power switch 702 from an “off” state to an “on” state. Thepower switch 702 may be a virtual or a mechanical switch. Toggling thepower switch 702 from the off state to the on state may initiateestablishment of a wireless connection between the device 104 and thecutting tool 102. In response, the device 104 may then establish awireless connection with the cutting tool 102 (e.g., by searching forand associating with the cutting tool 102), and then transmit or send asignal 704 to the cutting tool 102, as shown in FIG. 7B, to command thecontroller of the cutting tool 102 to prepare for a remote-cutoperation.

In some examples, the power switch 702 may also serve an additionalfunction. In particular, an operator may also use the power switch 702to immediately stop the enabling of a remote-cut operation at any timeprior to performing the remote-cut. By way of example, to immediatelystop the remote-cut operation, the operator may toggle the power switch702 from the “on” state to the “off” state at any time prior toperforming the remote-cut. In response, the device 104 may then transmitor send a signal to the cutting tool 102, to command the controller ofthe cutting tool 102 to terminate the enabling of the remote-cut mode.

After sending the signal 704 to the cutting tool 102, the operator maylock the trigger 110 and switch the cutting tool from local use toremote use. As discussed above, the cutting tool 102 may have a triggerlock 500. The operator may push the trigger lock 500 while the trigger110 is pulled, mechanically locking the trigger 110 in the “on” state.Because the cutting tool 102 had received the signal 704 form the device104 commanding the cutting tool 102 to prepare for the remote-cut mode,pulling the trigger 110 might not cause the actuator of the cutting tool102 to be powered. This would indicate to the operator thatcommunication had been properly established between the device 104 andthe cutting tool 102. Alternatively, if the signal 704 was not receivedcorrectly at the cutting tool 102 due to, for example, communicationfaults, pulling the trigger 110 might cause the actuator to be powered.This would indicate to the operator that communication has not beenestablished or that the procedure for enabling the remote-cut mode mightnot have been followed correctly.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 7C the cutting tool 102 may have a remoteswitch 706. The operator may toggle the remote switch 706 to switch thecutting tool 102 between a normal mode (e.g., local-use-only-mode) and aremote-cut mode (e.g., remote-use-only mode). In the normal mode, thecutting tool 102 may be operated directly by an operator, using thetrigger 110 of the cutting tool 102. Whereas, in the remote-cut mode,the cutting tool may be operated remotely using the device 104.Accordingly, as part of the procedure for enabling the remote-cut mode,the operator may use the remote switch 706 to place the cutting tool inthe remote-cut mode.

In some examples, the remote switch 706 may serve an additional functionas well. In particular, an operator may also use the remote switch 706to stop a remote-cut operation or prevent a remote-cut operation. By wayof example, to prevent or stop a remote-cut operation, the operator maytoggle the remote switch 706 from the remote-cut mode to the normalmode. In response, the controller of the cutting tool 102 may enter a“lock out” state until the trigger 110 is unlocked. In the “lock out”state, actuating of the cutting tool may be disabled. When the trigger110 is unlocked, the cutting tool 102 may then return to the normalmode.

It should be noted that the order in which the operator locks thetrigger 110 and switches the cutting tool 102 from normal mode toremote-cut mode might not matter. For example, an operator may firstswitch the cutting tool from normal mode to remote-cut mode using theremote switch 706 and then subsequently lock the trigger 110. Switchingthe cutting tool to remote-cut mode may cause the trigger to not causean actuation of the two blades, so that the trigger can be locked in the“on” state. After the operator locks the trigger 110 and switches thecutting tool 102 to remote-cut mode (in any order), as shown in FIG. 7D,the controller of the cutting tool 102 may then send a signal/message708 to the device 104, confirming that the cutting tool 102 is in theremote-cut mode.

In addition, in some examples, the operator may switch the cutting tool102 to the remote-cut mode using the remote switch 706, and alsooptionally subsequently lock the trigger 110, before toggling the powerswitch 702 on the device 104 from an “off” state to an “on” state.Further, if the operator switches the cutting tool 102 to the remote-cutmode and then waits a while (e.g., two minutes) before toggling thepower switch 702 on the device 104 from the “off” state to the “on”state, the controller of the cutting tool 102 may nevertheless “wakeup”upon detecting a signal from the device 104. By way of example, thecontroller 102 may “awake” after detecting a predetermined signal (e.g.,a Bluetooth awake signal) from the device 104.

Additionally or alternatively, the controller of the cutting tool 102may terminate the enabling of the remote-cut operation and enter apower-save or sleep mode if the controller of the cutting tool does notreceive a signal from the device 104 within a predetermined time period(e.g., five minutes, ten minutes, etc.) of when the remote switch 706was toggled.

In some examples, the device 104 may include a power-saving mode. By wayof example, in the event that the device 104 never establishes awireless connection with the cutting tool 102 (e.g., if the power switch702 was inadvertently switched “on” but the cutting tool 102 is “off” oris out of range of the device 104), the device 104 may enter apower-saving mode after a predetermined time period expires. Forinstance, the device 104 may enter a power-saving mode after two minutesof unsuccessfully attempting to establish a connection with the cuttingtool 102. Additionally or alternatively, the device 104 may enter apower-saving mode if a connection with the cutting tool 102 drops andcannot be re-established within a predetermined amount of time (e.g.,two minutes). The device 104 may, for example, detect a droppedconnection if a battery is removed from the cutting tool 102.Re-establishing the connection within the predetermined amount of timemay restart a power-saving timer.

As still another example, in the event that the device 104 receives thesignal/message 708 from the cutting tool 102 and a predetermined amountof time (e.g., two minutes) elapses without the operator proceeding toarm the cutting tool 102, the device 104 may enter the power-save mode.If the device 104 enters the power-saving mode, an operator may cyclethe power switch 702 to “off” and then back to “on” to restart theenabling of the remote-cut mode.

As discussed above, performing a remote-cut operation may also involvearming or readying the cutting tool 102 for the remote-cut operation.FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate an additional example procedure for arming orreadying the cutting tool 102. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8A,an operator may press and hold an “arm” button 802 on the remote device102 to confirm the operator's intent to move to the cut stage and armthe cutting tool 102. By way of example, the operator may press and holdthe “arm” button 802 for a predetermined length of time (e.g., fiveseconds). In response, as shown in FIG. 8B, the device 104 may send ortransmit a signal/message 804 to the controller of the cutting tool 102,commanding the controller to arm the cutting tool 102. Subsequently, auser may then press one (or multiple) “cut” buttons (not shown). Inresponse, the device 104 may send or transmit a signal/message to thecutting tool 102, commanding the controller to start the remote-cutoperation. In some embodiments, one or both of the device 104 and thecutting tool 102 may provide indications to the operator indicating thecurrent operating state of the cutting tool 102. In line with discussionabove, the device 104 may have a display that generates messages.Additionally or alternatively, one or both of the device 104 and thecutting tool 102 may include a speaker or audible device configured toprovide audible indications of the operating state of the cutting tool102.

As one example, the cutting tool 102 may include an audible device thatis configured to provide different respective audible indications whenthe cutting tool 102 is attempting to establish a connection with thedevice 104, has established a connection with the device 104, and isarmed. Similarly, the device 104 may include an audible device that isconfigured to provide different respective audible indications when thedevice 104 is attempting to establish a connection with the cutting tool102, has established a connection with the cutting tool 102, the cuttingtool 102 is armed, and a remote-cut command has been issued. Further,the device 104 may provide particular audible indications indicatingwhether or not a remote-cut operation was completed without error.

As another example, each of the device 104 and the cutting tool 102 mayinclude one or more LEDs or other light sources configured to providevisual indications of the operating state of the cutting tool 102. Byway of example, FIGS. 9A and 9B conceptually illustrate example visualindications that may be provided during a remote-cut procedure. Inparticular, FIG. 9A depicts a flow diagram 902 showing different visualindications that may be provided by the cutting tool 102 (i.e., on the“Tool Side”) and by the device 104 (i.e., on the “Remote Side”).Further, FIG. 9B is a table 904 that provides an example of differentrespective patterns that may be provided by LEDs on the cutting tool 102and the device 104.

As shown in FIG. 9A, the cutting tool 102 may include a single beacon(e.g., an LED or other light source) configured to provide threedifferent beacons: Beacon #1, Beacon #2, and Beacon #3. In particular,the flow diagram 902 indicates that the beacon may be configured toprovide Beacon #1 when the remote switch 706 is switched toremote-use-only mode. The beacon may also be configured to provideBeacon #2 when the trigger 110 is locked (e.g., using the trigger lock500). Further, the beacon may be configured to provide Beacon #3 whenthe cutting tool 102 or when an error in a remote-cut operation occurs.

The table 904 of FIG. 9B provides examples of patterns corresponding toeach of Beacon #1, Beacon #2, and Beacon #3. Specifically, in theexample configuration, the pattern for Beacon #1 may be blinking at oneblink per second, the pattern for Beacon #2 may be blinking at twoblinks per second, and the pattern for Beacon #3 may be blinking atthree blinks per second.

As further shown in FIG. 9A, the device 104 may include five LEDs: threeFunction LEDs and two Results LEDs. The three Function LEDs may beconfigured to provide five different LED patterns. In particular, theflow diagram 902 indicates that the three Function LEDs may providePattern #1 when the device 104 is powered on, Pattern #2 when aconnection with the cutting tool 102 is established, Pattern #3 while anoperator is arming the cutting tool 102, Pattern #4 when the cuttingtool 102 is armed, and Pattern #5 when a remote-cut command has beenissued. Further, a first one of the Results LEDs may be configured toprovide an indication if a remote-cut is completed successfully and asecond one of the Results LEDs may be configured to provide anindication if an error in the remote-cut operation occurs.

The table 904 of FIG. 9B provides examples of patterns corresponding toeach of Pattern #1, Pattern #2, Pattern #3, Pattern #4, and Pattern #5.In addition, the table 904 provides examples of indications that may beprovided by the two Results LEDs.

To enhance safety of the system described above, it is desirable toensure exclusive one-to-one pairing between the device 104 and thecutting tool 102. In other words, the cutting tool 102 may be configuredto respond only to signals received from the device 104, and thus notrespond to signals from any other devices. Similarly, the device 104 maybe configured to communicate exclusively with the cutting tool 102. Inthis manner, unintended signals from other devices would not interferewith operation of the cutting tool 102 and the device 104.

FIG. 10 illustrates exclusive one-to-one pairing between the cuttingtool 102 and the device 104, in accordance with an exampleimplementation. As shown in FIG. 10 , the cutting tool 102 has exclusiveone-to-one pairing with the device 104 via a communication channel 1000.Similarly, a cutting tool 1002 has exclusive one-to-one pairing with adevice 1004 via a communication channel 1006, and a cutting tool 1008has exclusive one-to-one pairing with a device 1010 via a communicationchannel 1012. However, communication channels 1014 and 1016 are notavailable. As such, the cutting tool 102 cannot communicate with eitherthe device 1004 or 1010. Similarly, there are no communication channelsbetween the device 104 and either of the cutting tools 1002 or 1008. Inthis manner, no unintended communications or interference can occurbetween unpaired cutting tools and devices, and thus system's safety isenhanced.

In an example, to ensure exclusive one-to-one pairing between thecutting tool 102 and the device 104, the cutting tool 102 may beassigned a particular communication address. Further, the device 104 mayhave a memory (e.g., the data storage 306) coupled to processor(s), andconfigured to store the particular communication address of the cuttingtool 102. The device 104 may be configured to receive signals andcommunications in general only from a cutting tool having that storedparticular communication address, i.e., the cutting tool 102. An examplecommunication address may include a media access control (MAC) address.

FIG. 11 illustrates the device 104 communicating exclusively with thecutting tool 102, which has a particular MAC address, in accordance withan example implementation. As shown in FIG. 11 , the cutting tool 102has a MAC address of (00:07:80:33:DB:6), which is stored in a memory ofthe device 104. Thus, the device 104 would exclusively receive andtransmit communications to and from the cutting tool 102.

Other cutting tools are assigned different MAC addresses. Particularly,a cutting tool 1100 is assigned a MAC address (00:07:80:33:1B:65);cutting tool 1102 is assigned a MAC address (00:07:80:23:AB:44); cuttingtool 1104 is assigned a MAC address (00:07:80:63:2B:34); cutting tool1106 is assigned a MAC address (00:07:80:33:FF:76); and cutting tool1108 is assigned a MAC address (00:07:80:33:BB:00). The device 104 wouldnot accept any communications from the cutting tools 1100, 1102, 1104,1106, and 1108 as their respective MAC addresses are not stored in thememory of the device 104.

FIG. 12 illustrates the cutting tool 102 communicating with the device104 while excluding other devices, in accordance with an exampleimplementation. The cutting tool 102 also has the same MAC address(00:07:80:33:DB:76) stored in its memory, and would pair only with thedevice 104, which is assigned the same MAC address. A device 1200 isassigned a MAC address (01:27:80:33:44:26); device 1202 is assigned aMAC address (00:07:80:33:FB:26); and device 1204 is assigned a MACaddress (00:07:80:33:DB:77). The cutting tool 102 would not accept anycommunications from the devices 1200, 1202, and 1204 as their respectiveMAC addresses are not are not stored in the memory of the cutting tool102.

III. Example Methods

FIG. 13 is a flow chart 1300, in accordance with an exampleimplementation. The flow chart 1300 may include one or more operations,or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 1302-1308. Althoughthe blocks are illustrated in a sequential order, these blocks may insome instances be performed in parallel, and/or in a different orderthan those described herein. Also, the various blocks may be combinedinto fewer blocks, divided into additional blocks, and/or removed basedupon the desired implementation.

In addition, for the flow chart 1300 and other processes and operationsdisclosed herein, the flow chart shows operation of one possibleimplementation of present examples. In this regard, each block mayrepresent a module, a segment, or a portion of program code, whichincludes one or more instructions executable by a processor or acontroller for implementing specific logical operations or steps in theprocess. The program code may be stored on any type of computer readablemedium or memory, for example, such as a storage device including a diskor hard drive. The computer readable medium may include a non-transitorycomputer readable medium or memory, for example, such ascomputer-readable media that stores data for short periods of time likeregister memory, processor cache and Random Access Memory (RAM). Thecomputer readable medium may also include non-transitory media ormemory, such as secondary or persistent long term storage, like readonly memory (ROM), optical or magnetic disks, compact-disc read onlymemory (CD-ROM), for example. The computer readable media may also beany other volatile or non-volatile storage systems. The computerreadable medium may be considered a computer readable storage medium, atangible storage device, or other article of manufacture, for example.In addition, for the flow chart 1300 and other processes and operationsdisclosed herein, one or more blocks in FIG. 13 may represent circuitryor digital logic that is arranged to perform the specific logicaloperations in the process.

The operations of the flow chart 1300 may be implemented by, forexample, the controller of the cutting tool 102 as described above.

At block 1302, the flow chart 1300 includes enabling a cutting tool tobe operated remotely in response to receiving a first signal from aremote device. In line with the discussion above, a cutting tool (e.g.,the cutting tool 102) includes a body, two blades coupled to the body,and an actuator coupled to the body and configured to cause the twoblades to move relative to each other. The cutting tool is in wirelesscommunication with a remote device (e.g., the device 104). For instance,the cutting tool, or a controller of the cutting tool, may be incommunication via a wireless protocol such as Bluetooth with the remotedevice.

The cutting tool may be configured to operate in at least two operatingmodes: a normal mode and a remote-cut mode. In the normal mode, anoperator may place a cable between the blades and pull a trigger causingthe actuator to move the blades relative to each other and cut thecable. In the remote-cut mode, however, the cutting tool may be remotelycontrolled via the remote device.

The controller may enable the cutting tool to operate in the remote-cutmode in response to one or more signals from the device. For instance,an operator may press a button (e.g., the button 202A) of a userinterface of the device to initiate operating the cutting tool remotely.This first press may be considered by the device as a first enablingcriterion. The device may request or wait for a second press on a secondbutton (e.g., the button 202D) within a threshold period of time fromthe first press to confirm that the operator intends to operate thecutting tool remotely. The second press is considered as a secondenabling criterion. In response to both the first and second enablingcriteria, the device may send a signal (e.g., the signal 400) to thecutting tool to inform the controller of the cutting tool to prepare foroperating remotely.

To emphasize safety, the controller may not place the cutting tool in aremote-cut mode until the controller receives a third enablingcriterion. For instance, the operator may be requested to press on atrigger (e.g., the trigger 110) coupled to the cutting tool to confirmthe operator's intention to operate the cutting tool remotely. Once thecontroller receives an indication of this third enabling criterion, thecontroller enables the cutting tool to operate in a remote-cut mode. Thecontroller may further send a signal (e.g., the signal 402) to informthe device that the cutting tool is now operating in a remote-cut mode.

The cutting tool may further have a light indicator. The controller maycause the light indicator to flash at a particular frequency to alertthe operator that the cutting tool is now operating in a remote-cutmode.

At block 1304, the flow chart 1300 includes receiving informationindicating that a trigger coupled to the body of the cutting tool hasbeen locked in an “on” state. After enabling the cutting tool to beoperated remotely, the next step is to arm or ready the cutting tool toperform a cutting operation. As an example, the operator may lock thetrigger in an “on” state to arm the cutting tool. For instance, thecutting tool may have a trigger locking mechanism (e.g., the triggerlock 500) that enables locking the trigger in the “on” state.

At block 1306, the flow chart 1300 includes sending a second signal tothe remote device indicating that the trigger has been locked in the“on” state. The controller may receive an indication that the trigger islocked in the “on” state, and in response send a signal (the signal 506)to the remote device to inform it that the trigger has been locked inthe “on” state. This signal further informs the remote device that thecutting tool is armed and ready to perform the cutting operation.

At block 1308, the flow chart 1300 includes, in response to receiving athird signal from the remote device, causing the actuator to move thetwo blades relative to each other to cut a cable placed therebetween.The operator may press one or more buttons (e.g., the buttons 202B and202E) to starting the cutting operation. Responsively, the device sendsa signal (e.g., the signal 600) to the cutting tool. When the controllerof the cutting tool receives an indication of this signal. Thecontroller commands the cutting tool to start the cutting operation. Forinstance, the controller provides power to an actuation mechanism thatdrives the actuator and causes the blades to move relative to each otherand cut a cable placed therebetween.

Further, if the operator desires to stop the cutting operation for anyreason, the operator may press a button (e.g., the button 202C) and thedevice may send another signal (e.g., the signal 602) to the cuttingtool. The controller stops the cutting tool in response to receivingsuch signal. The controller may also send one or more signals during thecutting operation to inform the device, and thus the operator, about thestatus of the cutting operation, e.g., whether the cutting operation issuccessful or a fault has occurred.

FIG. 14 is another flow chart 1400, in accordance with an exampleimplementation. The flow chart 1400 may include one or more operations,or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 1402-1412. Althoughthe blocks are illustrated in a sequential order, these blocks may insome instances be performed in parallel, and/or in a different orderthan those described herein. Also, the various blocks may be combinedinto fewer blocks, divided into additional blocks, and/or removed basedupon the desired implementation.

In addition, for the flow chart 1400 and other processes and operationsdisclosed herein, the flow chart shows operation of one possibleimplementation of present examples. In this regard, each block mayrepresent a module, a segment, or a portion of program code, whichincludes one or more instructions executable by a processor or acontroller for implementing specific logical operations or steps in theprocess. The program code may be stored on any type of computer readablemedium or memory, for example, such as a storage device including a diskor hard drive. The computer readable medium may include a non-transitorycomputer readable medium or memory, for example, such ascomputer-readable media that stores data for short periods of time likeregister memory, processor cache and Random Access Memory (RAM). Thecomputer readable medium may also include non-transitory media ormemory, such as secondary or persistent long term storage, like readonly memory (ROM), optical or magnetic disks, compact-disc read onlymemory (CD-ROM), for example. The computer readable media may also beany other volatile or non-volatile storage systems. The computerreadable medium may be considered a computer readable storage medium, atangible storage device, or other article of manufacture, for example.In addition, for the flow chart 1400 and other processes and operationsdisclosed herein, one or more blocks in FIG. 14 may represent circuitryor digital logic that is arranged to perform the specific logicaloperations in the process.

The operations of the flow chart 1400 may be implemented by, forexample, the device 104 (or a processing unit of the device 104) asdescribed above.

At block 1402, the flow chart 1400 includes receiving informationindicative of actuation of a first user interface item of a plurality ofinterface items of a device configured to remotely control a cuttingtool. A device such as the device 104 may have an interface (e.g., theuser interface 200) having buttons, indicators, and a display. Anoperator may press one or more buttons (e.g., the buttons 202A and 202D)to activate a remote-cut mode of a cutting tool (e.g., the cutting tool102). The processing unit of the device may then receive an indicationthat the operator pressed the buttons.

At block 1404, the flow chart 1400 includes responsively, sending afirst signal to the cutting tool so as to request enabling the cuttingtool to be operated remotely. In response to receiving the informationindicating that the operator pressed the button(s), the device may thensend a signal (e.g., the signal 400) to the cutting tool requesting thatthe cutting tool be enabled to be operated remotely.

At block 1406, the flow chart 1400 includes receiving a second signalfrom the cutting tool indicating that remote operation of the cuttingtool has been enabled. After a controller of the cutting tool receivesthe first signal, the controller may further receive another indicationor confirmation that the operator desires to operate the cutting tool inthe remote-cut mode. The confirmation may include, for example, theoperator pulling a trigger of the cutting tool. The controller thensends a second signal (e.g., the signal 402) to the device to confirmthat the remote-cut mode has been enabled for the cutting tool. Theprocessing unit of the device may generate a display of a message on adisplay of the device that the remote-cut mode is enabled.

At block 1408, the flow chart 1400 includes receiving a third signalfrom the cutting tool indicating that the cutting tool is ready toperform a cutting operation. After enabling the remote-cut model, theoperator may arm or ready the cutting tool for a cutting operation. Forinstance, the operator may lock a trigger of the cutting tool in an “on”state. Then, the controller may send a signal (e.g., the signal 506) toinform the device that the cutting tool is armed and ready to performthe cutting operation. The processing unit of the device may generate adisplay of a message on a display of the device that the cutting tool isarmed.

At block 1410, the flow chart 1400 includes receiving informationindicative of actuation of a second user interface item of the pluralityof interface items. Once the operator sees a message or is informed thatthe cutting tool is armed, the operator may select or actuate a userinterface item (press the buttons 202B and 202E) to command starting thecutting operation. The processing unit of the device receives anindication that the operator selected the user interface item.

At block 1412, the flow chart 1400 includes, responsively, sending afourth signal to the cutting tool so as to cause the cutting tool toperform the cutting operation. In response to receiving an indicationthat the operator commanded starting the cutting operation, the devicesends a signal (e.g., the signal 600) commanding the cutting tool tostarting the cutting operation. The device may thereafter receivesignals from the cutting tool 102 regarding status of the cuttingoperation, i.e., whether the cutting operation is successful or a faulthas occurred.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart 1500, in accordance with an exampleimplementation. The flow chart 1500 may include one or more operations,or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 1502-1510. Althoughthe blocks are illustrated in a sequential order, these blocks may insome instances be performed in parallel, and/or in a different orderthan those described herein. Also, the various blocks may be combinedinto fewer blocks, divided into additional blocks, and/or removed basedupon the desired implementation.

The operations of the flow chart 1500 may be implemented by, forexample, the controller of the cutting tool 102 as described above.

At block 1502, the flow chart 1500 includes establishing a wirelessconnection with a remote device. In line with the discussion above, acontroller of the cutting tool may establish a wireless connection withthe remote device using, for example, a Bluetooth communicationprotocol.

At block 1504, the flow chart 1500 includes receiving informationindicating that a trigger of the cutting tool is locked in an “on” stateand a remote switch of the cutting tool is in a first position. Asdiscussed above, an operator may switch the cutting tool to aremote-cutting mode using a remote switch coupled to the body of thecutting tool and lock the trigger using a trigger lock switch coupled tothe body, in any order.

At block 1506, the flow chart 1500 includes responsive to receiving theinformation, sending a first signal to the remote device indicating thatthe cutting tool is enabled to be operated remotely. At block 1508, theflow chart 1500 includes receiving a second signal from the remotedevice indicating a request to perform a cutting operation. And at block1510, the flow chart 1500 includes responsive to receiving the secondsignal from the remote device, causing the cutting tool to perform thecutting operation. For example, the controller of the cutting tool maycause the actuator to move two blades of the cutting tool relative toeach other.

FIG. 16 is another flow chart 1600, in accordance with an exampleimplementation. The flow chart 1600 may include one or more operations,or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 1602-1612. Althoughthe blocks are illustrated in a sequential order, these blocks may insome instances be performed in parallel, and/or in a different orderthan those described herein. Also, the various blocks may be combinedinto fewer blocks, divided into additional blocks, and/or removed basedupon the desired implementation.

The operations of the flow chart 1600 may be implemented by, forexample, the device 104 (or a processing unit of the device 104) asdescribed above.

As shown in FIG. 16 , at block 1602, the flow chart 1600 includesestablishing a wireless connection with a cutting tool. In line with thediscussion above, an operator of the device may toggle a power switch toan “on” state to trigger the device to establish a wireless connectionwith the cutting tool.

At block 1604, the flow chart 1600 includes receiving a first signalfrom the cutting tool indicating that the cutting tool is enabled to beoperated remotely. In line with the discussion above, an operator mayplace the cutting tool in a remote-cutting mode using a remote switchand lock the trigger of the cutting tool using a trigger lock switch. Acontroller of the cutting tool may then send a signal to the cuttingtool indicating that the cutting tool is ready to perform aremote-cutting operation.

At block 1606, the flow chart 1600 includes receiving informationindicative of actuation of a first button of a user interface of thedevice. By way of example, an operator may press and hold an “arm”button or other user-interface item on the user interface for apredetermined amount of time, and the user interface may send a signalto a processor of the device indicating that the arm button has beenactuated.

At block 1608, the flow chart 1600 includes responsive to receiving theinformation indicative of the actuation of the first button, sending asecond signal to the cutting tool indicating a request to arm thecutting tool.

At block 1610, the flow chart 1600 includes receiving informationindicative of actuation of a second button of the user interface. By wayof example, an operator may press a “cut” button or other user-interfaceitem on the user interface.

And at block 1612, the flow chart 1600 includes responsive to receivingthe information indicative of the actuation of the second button,sending a third signal to the cutting tool indicating a request to causethe cutting tool to perform a cutting operation.

IV. Conclusion

It should be understood that arrangements described herein are forpurposes of example only. As such, those skilled in the art willappreciate that other arrangements and other elements (e.g., machines,interfaces, orders, and groupings of operations, etc.) can be usedinstead, and some elements may be omitted altogether according to thedesired results.

While various aspects and implementations have been disclosed herein,other aspects and implementations will be apparent to those skilled inthe art. The various aspects and implementations disclosed herein arefor purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, withthe true scope being indicated by the following claims, along with thefull scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is alsoto be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose ofdescribing particular implementations only, and is not intended to belimiting.

1-25. (canceled)
 26. A method for remotely controlling a cutting tool,the method comprising: establishing, by a device, a wireless connectionwith the cutting tool; receiving, by the device, a first signal from thecutting tool indicating that the cutting tool is enabled to be operatedremotely; receiving, by the device, information indicative of actuationof a first button of a user interface of the device; responsive toreceiving the information indicative of the actuation of the firstbutton, sending, by the device, a second signal to the cutting toolindicating a request to arm the cutting tool; receiving informationindicative of actuation of a second button of the user interface; andresponsive to receiving the information indicative of the actuation ofthe second button, sending, by the device, a third signal to the cuttingtool indicating a request to cause the cutting tool to perform a cuttingoperation.
 27. The method of claim 26, wherein sending the third signalto the cutting tool indicating the request to cause the cutting tool toperform the cutting operation is performed responsive to receiving theinformation indicative of the actuation of the second button within athreshold time period of receiving the information indicative of theactuation of the first button.
 28. The method of claim 26, wherein theuser interface further comprises a power switch, the method furthercomprising: receiving, by the device, information indicative that thepower switch is switched from an “off” state to an “on” state; andresponsive to receiving the information indicative that the power switchis switched from the “off” state to the “on” state, establishing, by thedevice, the wireless connection with the cutting tool.
 29. The method ofclaim 28, wherein the device further comprises at least one functionlight source configured to provide one or more indications indicative ofan operating state of the cutting tool, the method further comprising:causing, by the device, the at least one function light source toprovide an indication indicating that the device is attempting toestablish the wireless connection with the cutting tool responsive toreceiving the information indicative that the power switch is switchedfrom the “off” state to the “on” state.
 30. The method of claim 26,wherein the device further comprises at least one function light sourceconfigured to provide one or more indications indicative of an operatingstate of the cutting tool, the method further comprising: causing, bythe device, the at least one function light source to provide anindication indicating that the device has established the wirelessconnection with the cutting tool responsive to establishing the wirelessconnection with the cutting tool.
 31. The method of claim 26, whereinthe device further comprises at least one function light sourceconfigured to provide one or more indications indicative of an operatingstate of the cutting tool, the method further comprising: causing, bythe device, the at least one function light source to provide anindication indicating that the cutting tool is enabled to be operatedremotely responsive to receiving the first signal from the cutting tool.32. The method of claim 26, wherein the device further comprises atleast one function light source configured to provide one or moreindications indicative of an operating state of the cutting tool, themethod further comprising: causing, by the device, the at least onefunction light source to provide an indication indicating that thecutting tool is armed responsive to receiving the information indicativeof the actuation of the first button.
 33. The method of claim 26,wherein the device further comprises at least one function light sourceconfigured to provide one or more indications indicative of an operatingstate of the cutting tool, the method further comprising: causing, bythe device, the at least one function light source to provide anindication indicating that the cutting tool is performing the cuttingoperation responsive to receiving the information indicative of theactuation of the second button.
 34. A method comprising: establishing,by a cutting tool, a wireless connection with a remote device;receiving, by the cutting tool, information indicating that a trigger ofthe cutting tool is locked in an “on” state and a remote switch of thecutting tool is in a first position; responsive to receiving theinformation indicating that the trigger is locked in the “on” state andthe remote switch is in the first position, sending, by the cuttingtool, a first signal to the remote device indicating that the cuttingtool is enabled to be operated remotely; receiving, by the cutting tool,a second signal from the remote device indicating a request to perform acutting operation; and responsive receiving the second signal from theremote device, causing the cutting tool to perform the cuttingoperation.
 35. The method of claim 34, wherein establishing the wirelessconnection with the remote device comprises establishing a wirelessconnection with the remote device by way of a Bluetooth communicationprotocol.